Solar Energy Calibration Facilities

These facilities include dedicated equipment for the analyses and continuous monitoring of solar energy harvesting systems. Solar cells based on high-performance III-V semiconductors are typically forwarded by the department’s Semiconductor Growth and Processing Facilities.

In addition cells and (sub)modules based on other materials (c-Si, a-Si, III-V, CIGS, CdTe, perovskites, etc.) which are brought in by industrial research partners of AMS are also monitored. The facilities allow for analysis under standard test conditions (AM1.5, 1000 W/cm², 25 ^oC) as well as concentrated illumination levels (up to 2000 times) and under precisely controlled indoor as well as relevant outdoor weather conditions.

 Indoor Calibration Facility

• Solar simulators for calibrated IV measurements;
• Quantum efficiency set-up for spectral response analyses;
• Integrating sphere reflection analyses;
• Concentrator set-ups for CPV-cell analyses.

Outdoor Calibration Facility

• Continuous global, direct & spectrally resolved solar irradiation monitoring
• Cloud coverage monitoring;
• Stationary rigs and sun tracking systems for mounting of solar (sub)modules;
• Continuous module data acquisition (I-V, temperature, power-out, etc.);
• Portal system for data transfer to the users.